Fun Things to do with Children in Kilkenny
Treat the family to a hotel break at Kilkenny Ormonde & enjoy nearby attractions & activities
Your Perfect Base for Exploring Ireland’s Medieval City
A family break at Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel means comfort, convenience and plenty of adventure right on your doorstep. Start your day with a splash in our leisure club, the only hotel in the city with a 21m swimming pool, children's pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and fully equipped gym. After some well-deserved downtime, step outside and discover the best of Kilkenny together.
From historic landmarks and thrilling outdoor activities to wildlife encounters, museums and scenic gardens, Kilkenny is filled with things to see and do for all ages. With everything either a short stroll or a quick drive away, it’s the perfect place to make memories that last.
Why not make the most of the hotel’s great location and take a Family Picnic to the Castle Park or out and about as you explore the county and countryside of Kilkenny. Please enquire at Reception. Prebooking 24 hours in advance is advised.
Choose from a range of great break packages that include a super Family Dining option. Browse our Family Breaks here
National Reptile Zoo
Ever wondered what a snake feels like? Or how much alligators eat? National Reptile Zoo is an indoor facility a few minutes drive away. Ireland's only reptile zoo, open 7 days from 10am till 6pm.
Castle Park and Playground
Just a three minute walk from Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel.
Kilkenny Cycling Tours
Enjoy an easy paced 2 hours, visiting historical & cultural sites around Kilkenny. Bikes for all ages, pre-booking advised but not essential.
Castlecomer Discovery Park
Great outdoor adventures, walking trails, boating lake, tree top walk, Ireland's longest zip line over water and much more. Remember to prebook your adventure in advance of your visit.
Nore Valley Park
Stroll around the pet farm, bottle feed lambs or goats and feed ducks and turkeys. Allow the children experience an Irish farm. Approximately 20 minutes by car. Open Monday- Saturday March to October.
WALK IN ART IT STUDIO
Paint and decorate to your heart’s desire all manner of objects. From animals, jewellery boxes, notebooks and treasure chests to money banks or handbags
Family Activities in Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle, Park & Playground — Explore historic castle rooms, stroll through 50 acres of parkland and enjoy a spacious family playground.
Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum — Wander through restored gardens, woodland walks and beautiful views over the River Nore Valley.
Kilkenny Cycling Tours — Discover the city’s landmarks and hidden gems on a relaxed, family-friendly guided cycle.
Kilkenny Road Train Tour — Enjoy a fun 30-minute sightseeing trip around the city aboard the charming road train.
Kiltorcan Raceway — Experience high-speed excitement on one of Ireland’s top outdoor go-karting circuits.
Dunmore Cave — Venture underground to explore dramatic limestone chambers and ancient Viking tales.
National Reptile Zoo — Get up close to fascinating reptiles and enjoy hands-on animal encounters the kids will love.
Castlecomer Discovery Park — Zipline, climb, paddle or simply explore 80 acres of woodland adventures for all ages.
Operation Minefall — Solve clues and crack codes in this AR-guided mystery experience at Castlecomer Discovery Park.
Junior Play Area Pass — Access the Bouncing Nets and Junior Woodland Adventure Course across multiple visits.
BoatTrips.ie — Take a guided open-boat tour on the River Nore with stories, wildlife and unique views of the city.
LaserWars — Enjoy safe, outdoor laser-tag fun perfect for families, birthdays and group outings.
Medieval Mile Museum — Explore Kilkenny’s medieval past through interactive exhibits, guided tours and a fun LEGO Heritage Hunt.
Make Kilkenny Ormonde Your Family Base
After a busy day exploring, return to the comfort of your spacious room, enjoy dinner together in HOBAN Bar & Brasserie and unwind with a relaxing evening swim or quiet family time. With everything you need under one roof and the city’s best attractions moments away, your Kilkenny adventure starts here.